- 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' offers a nostalgic 1960s vibe and family message.
- Despite improvements over past versions, the film lacks excitement and fresh storytelling.
- Characters feel one-note, and the plot is predictable, limiting its impact in the MCU.
Superhero movies have become a staple of modern cinema. We've seen countless iterations, reboots and spin-offs, and it seems like there's no stopping the genre.
From "Thunderbolts," earlier this year, to "Superman" dominating the box office, superhero films are as popular as ever.
Enter "The Fantastic Four: First Steps", the third iteration of the beloved Marvel team in just two decades. This time, they've been incorporated into the ever-expanding MCU, joining the likes of Spider-Man, the Avengers and the X-Men.
So, how does this version of the Fantastic Four stack up against its predecessors? And more importantly, how does it hold its own in the crowded world of superhero films?
I went into "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" with cautious optimism. After all, it's the MCU's turn to take on the iconic superhero family, and I was hoping for something fresh. Unfortunately, while the film has its moments, it doesn't do much to break new ground or give us a fresh take on the familiar story.
Where does it rank with past Fantastic Four films?
This new version of the Fantasti Four, in my opinion, is the best of the bunch — but it's not without its caveats. To explain why, let's break down the previous films
The 2005 film "Fantastic Four," with its cast led by Chris Evans, Ioan Gruffudd and Jessica Alba, had its moments but was ultimately a bit forgettable. This new take does a better job of capturing the spirit of the characters, even though it struggles to fully deliver.
Then, in 2015's "Fantastic Four", we got the much darker, more serious take on the characters from Miles Teller, Kate Mara, and Michael B. Jordan. Despite a great cast, that movie was a disaster. So, compared to that, this new version is a clear winner, but it still has its flaws that prevent it from being truly memorable.
The good
The '60s vibe
One of the standout elements of "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is its 1960s vibe. While not my personal favorite era, the '60s aesthetic works here and adds a fun twist to the movie.
The costumes, the tech and the set designs all feel like they're ahead of their time yet intentionally stuck in the past. I loved how the film embraced the idealism and wholesomeness of the era, with people working together for the greater good.
The set design is a treat, featuring conversation pits, shag carpeting and plenty of turtlenecks. It gives the film a nostalgic feel while also grounding it in the kind of world where superheroes would rise to the occasion.
The retro setting adds an interesting flavor to the movie that works well with the story and characters.
The family message
At its core, the Fantastic Four has always been about family, and that message is on full display in this edition. The team's bond is central to the film, and it's clear that they're willing to go to great lengths to protect one another.
The family dynamic feels authentic, and the disagreements and squabbles among the team remind me of the real-life tension you might experience with family members. The movie does a solid job of portraying these relationships in a way that feels real and relatable.
There's a message about unity and working together, even when you're not always on the same page — something that rings true both in superhero stories and in everyday life.
The not-so-good
It was kind of boring
Here's the thing: "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is a superhero movie that just didn't excite me as much as I hoped it would. Sure, it's not the worst movie I've ever seen, but a superhero movie should have thrills, humor and enough action to keep me entertained. Unfortunately, this one didn't deliver on those fronts.
It felt like the story meandered with little to no urgency, and before I knew it, the movie was over. There were some cool moments — like a solid chase scene in space — but even the climactic moments felt rushed and lacked the intensity I was expecting and hoping for.
The characters felt one-note
I like the actors portraying the Fantastic Four, but the characters themselves didn't do much for me.
Ben, the rock guy, has his struggles with being stuck in his monstrous form, but the movie doesn't really delve into that conflict. Reed Richards is supposed to be the brainy, analytical one, but he comes off as completely devoid of any real personality. Sue Storm and Johnny Storm are supposed to be siblings with a deep, complicated relationship, but their bond felt flat.
Johnny, in particular, was a letdown. I get that he's the bad boy of the group, but Joseph Quinn's portrayal of him felt too subdued. In the 2005 version, Chris Evans nailed the role with just the right amount of cocky charm, but Quinn's Johnny lacked the energy and fun that made the character so iconic. It wasn't Quinn's fault, though. I think the script and direction failed to provide him with the material he needed to really shine.
It feels like we've seen it all before
At this point, we've seen so many superhero movies that we need something fresh to keep us interested. "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" didn't bring anything new to the table. From the opening scene, it was obvious where the movie was headed, and by the time we got there, it felt like I had already seen it all before.
The plot felt formulaic, like it had been lifted from several earlier MCU films and mashed together. While it was fine to watch, I didn't feel any real excitement or surprise. The movie played it too safe, rehashing ideas and tropes that we've seen time and time again.
What parents should know
"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is rated PG-13, and I think that's an appropriate rating for the movie. The violence is minimal, with a few action sequences and some mild peril. There are a few obscenities used, but nothing too shocking. The villain isn't particularly scary, and the '60s setting keeps the tone lighter than some of the other recent MCU entries.
I'd say this is one of the more family-friendly superhero films in the MCU. Younger kids should be fine with the content, but as always, what is and is not OK for your kids is your call, not mine.
Conclusion
Ultimately, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" isn't a bad movie, but it didn't leave a lasting impact. The '60s vibe and family-focused message were strong points, but the lackluster characters, slow pacing and formulaic story kept it from being truly memorable.
It's certainly an improvement over the 2015 disaster, but it doesn't rise to the level of other standout MCU films.
If you're a die-hard superhero fan, you'll likely enjoy the movie for what it is. But if you're looking for something fresh or truly exciting, this one may leave you wanting more.
"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is rated PG-13 for language and mild action.
